Talk about star power. This fifteenth-century castle looms ahead as you wander out of a pine forest. Instantly you recall a jousting scene from the fortress's featured role in an early-sixties epic flick, one where the lady was played by a classic Italian beauty and the lord by a chiseled American leading man. A knight who fights invaders, he dies in a moment of triumph (big surprise) just before the credits roll.

Made of small hewn stones, the hexagonal stronghold was designed in a hybrid of styles unique to the peninsula this country dominates. It was commissioned by a marquisthe first in a lineage that still existswho was tight with a king we'll call Hank. The marquis's son lost the citadel in a war of succession but regained it courtesy of one of history's great power couples. Later, an empress consort moved in and had the place gussied up after the death of her husband (the nephew of a famed dynamo of a ruler). Another huge renovation, just completed, brought the exquisite wood ceilings and stone architraves back to life.

You are visiting a town of a few thousand inhabitants in the southeast corner of a province whose main city is known for houses perched precariously on clifftops. And you've chosen a propitious spot from which to start touring this region, since the hill you're standing on is named for the patron saint of voyagers. This hot, dry plateau is best known as the setting for a great picaresque tale. In fact, the first leg of a literary route goes right through here. So grab your walking stick or jump on a bike and go forththings could really start tilting your way.

THIS MONTH'S PRIZEAmong the newest Toronto luxury hotels, The Ritz-Carlton, Toronto welcomes guests to the heart of the city's financial district with a world-class spa, exceptional dining, impeccable service and 267 luxurious guest rooms and suites. Just steps from landmark locations, including the Design Exchange, CN Tower and the Entertainment District, this luxury hotel in Toronto provides convenient access to all this one-of-a-kind city has to offer.

Make Your Opinion Count!

Sign up to participate in Condé Nast Traveler reader polls, and you may earn a chance to win a free trip in one of our survey sweepstakes.more information ›

Truth In Travel

Condé Nast Traveler is committed to reporting on travel fairly and impartially. We travel anonymously and pay our own way.more information ›

E-mail the Editors

Send us your questions or comments about Condé Nast Traveler articles, contests, and features.e-mail now ›

Prices and other information were accurate at press time, but are subject to change. Please confirm details with individual establishments before planning your trip.

EXPRESS SIGN-UP
Sign up for one of our exciting panels and receive the latest news, travel offers, and event invitations from
Condé Nast Traveler and our valued advertising partners.